The sideline behavior of many coaches has been getting worse and worse, and Rutgers on Thursday drew a line.

The school suspended coach Mike Rice for three games without pay and fined him another $50,000 for inappropriate behavior and language during games.

Rutgers has suspended coach Mike Rice for three games. (AP Photo)

In his three years with the Scarlet Knights, Rice has been one of the most boisterous and animated coaches in college basketball.

“Accountability is a vital element of the Rutgers athletics family, and it is imperative our head coaches act and lead in a responsible manner,” Rutgers athletics director Tim Pernetti said in a statement. “This was not an easy decision for me to make but absolutely necessary to ensure what is best for our program.”

David Cox, the associate head coach, will serve as the team’s interim coach against Alabama-Birmingham on Sunday, Howard on Dec. 21 and Rider on Dec. 28. Rice will return to the sideline when the Scarlet Knights open Big East play at Syracuse on Jan. 2.

“Since becoming a coach at the age of 21, I have taken great pride in not only helping young men learn the game of basketball but also in teaching them about character, respect and hard work,” Rice said in a statement. “To the extent that my conduct has ever been in contrast with those principles, I have failed my players -- and myself -- and I take full responsibility for my actions and accept the terms of my suspension. I will learn from my mistakes and I will become a better coach, teacher and role model.

“I sincerely apologize to our players, both past and present; to our incredible assistant coaches and staff; to president (Robert) Barchi, the board of governors and director of athletics Tim Pernetti for their belief in me; to the University faculty, staff and student body who represent the greatness of RU and to our Scarlet Knight fans who provide so much support to our teams. My commitment to becoming a better man and coach is only matched by my passion to make Rutgers basketball a great source of pride for the community.”